KCC system change could force rise in Age Concern Charges

9.50.43am GMT Wed 20th Jan 2010

Lib Dem County Councillor George Koowaree has warned that people using Age Concern services may face increased charges because Kent County Council (KCC) has changed the way it funds them.

Although the total funding remains the same, 5 per cent of the total grant money given by KCC to Age Concerns will be "top sliced". That money will be targeted to Age Concerns providing personalised services, deals with greater numbers of people aged over 75 and/or have pressing financial needs.

KCC have based their assessment of each Age Concern's viability by checking if their Unrestricted Reserves (2008 Accounts) cover 6 months operating costs. This is a flawed and unfair process as KCC itself admits that each of the thirty Age Concerns decides for itself what money can be regarded as "Unrestricted Reserves".

KCC says the new system will give more money to those centres who deal with greater numbers of clients over 75. However, the withdrawal of 5% funding will have a knock on effect to the individuals for whom Age Concern is a lifeline.

Liberal Democrat County Councillor for Ashford East, George Koowaree, said:

"If centres are not viable, then we should not be asking residents elsewhere in the county to pay higher charges to prop them up, as Age Concerns who are unable to find the 5% shortfall in their funding from other sources will be left with no other choice but to increase their charges. KCC must ensure that vulnerable older people are not left with the financial burden of their decisions."